Instant Analysis: How Ito Smith fits for Falcons offense

The Atlanta Falcons improved their backfield even more in the fourth round with the selection of Southern Mississippi running back Ito Smith. He’ll join Tevin Coleman and Devonta Freeman as one of the best young groups of running backs in the NFL.

On the field

As a runner, Smith is an ideal zone running back with his one-cut and go style and vision to see the holes opening up. He also runs with surprising power and can break tackles like Freeman. His athletic profile allows him to get upfield fast once he gets the ball in his hands.

As a receiver, he’s got solid hands but would need to improve his route running. On screens, he’s deadly, and Smith’s experience catching the ball out of the backfield is extensive. He’s a home run threat at any time with his 4.4 speed and that’s never more apparent than when he’s in space.

An underrated part of Smith’s game is pass blocking. He’s already competent there compared to most rookie backs. On top of all of this, he can return the ball effectively on kicks or punts. His only real downside is size and lateral agility.

Off the field

As a team leader and someone who fights for extra yards, Smith checks all of the boxes that the Falcons need him to check to be an effective member of the brotherhood. Atlanta fans will love him too after seeing him punish safeties at full speed the way Freeman does.

Why Ito Smith instead of Shaquem Griffin or Tyrell Crosby?

The Falcons needed to upgrade their third running back role with someone who could bring similar things that Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman do. Shaquem Griffin would have been a great pick, but he’s slipping for some reason, and Tyrell Crosby has injury questions.